Energy Requirements of BR18

A quick guide for the construction industry on the Danish Building Regulations 2018

Danish Knowledge Centre for

Energy Savings in Buildings Published April 2018
 Energy Requirements of BR18

Table of Contents
Energy requirements of the Building Regulations ................................................................................. 3
What energy requirements does BR18 pose? ....................................................................................... 4
Always consider energy and indoor climate ....................................................................................... 5
New buildings ........................................................................................................................... 6
Change of use ......................................................................................................................... 10
Extensions ............................................................................................................................. 11
Conversions and other alterations ................................................................................................. 13
Replacements of building elements and installations .......................................................................... 16
Holiday homes (in designated “summer house” areas) ........................................................................ 17
Requirements for installations ..................................................................................................... 18
Energy solutions and BR18 tools to help you on your way ..................................................................... 19

Change in the Building Regulations’ requirements for energy demand of single family houses 1961-2020
kWh per m2 of
living space

350

300

250

200

150

100

50

0
Average 1961-1979 1979-1998 1998-2006 2006-2010 2010-2015 2015-2020 Low energy class
consumption (voluntary)
for all buildings
calculated in 2010
Figure 1

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

Energy requirements of the

Building Regulations
The Building Regulations 2018 – BR18 – are in effect Both are important to be familiar with. You will find
in Denmark as of January 1st 2018 with a transitional the specific requirements for U values and line losses in
period until July 1st 2018. Annex 2.

The energy requirements are largely the same
as in BR15. However, the building class 2020 has
become voluntary rather than statutory also after
2020 and is now included in the regulations as a
low energy class. Further, the structure of BR18
has changed significantly. It has a new subject and
chapter structure, there are new instructional texts
and attachments as well as a number of linguistic
clarifications.
This quick guide gives you a quick overview of how to
ensure that the buildings you construct or renovate
live up to BR18’s energy requirements. In the actual
regulations, these requirements are found in Chapter
11 on energy consumption, in Chapter 19 about
thermal indoor climate and installations as well
as Chapter 22 on ventilation. In addition, there is
instructional text to BR18’s Chapter 11 and an Annex 2:
”Tables for Chapter 11 - Energy Consumption”.
Building in accordance with BR18 of course requires a
deeper insight into all of BR18 than this quick guide on
the energy requirements can provide. The quick guide
will, however, be a good primer when it comes to the
energy requirements of heated buildings.
Six categories of construction projects
The Building Regulations operate with six different
categories of construction projects that differ in
relation to the energy requirements.
In order to figure out how to adhere to the Building
Regulations, you should begin by placing your
project in the proper category and finding the proper
paragraphs of BR18.
For the first five categories, § 250 to § 258 in BR18
apply. In addition, there are specific paragraphs for
each category.

New Change Extensions Conversions and Replacements of building Reparations*

buildings of use other alterations elements and installations

Energy Energy Energy Energy requirements Energy requirements No energy

requirements requirements requirements (cost-effective) requirements
§§ 250-258
§§ 250-258 §§ 250-258 §§ 250-258 §§ 250-258 §§ 274-279 Instructional text
§§ 259-266 §§ 267-270 §§ 271-273 §§ 274-279 about energy con-
sumption item 4.0

* Reparations include paint treatment, mending plaster, plastering the facade, new roof valleys and Figure 2
covering, mending holes in the roof, etc.

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

What energy requirements does BR18 pose?

Here, you can see the energy requirements posed by BR18 for the different categories of projects and
where they can be found in BR18. Please note that regardless of other requirements, there are always
requirements in relation to moisture in chapter 14 and durability in chapter 15 of BR18.

ENTS
L W A Y S R EQUIREM
New buildings A S
A L L AT I O N
Requirements § in BR
F O R I N S Tnts are altered or replaced
mpone
- when co
§§ 259-260
Energy performance framework
+ §§ 261-266
&
Requirements for airtightness § 263
&
Requirements for design § 264
&
transmission loss Extensions
General minimum requirements § 257
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
Requirements § in BR
&
General minimum requirements
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258 Energy performance framework §§ 259-260
skylight domes and glazed roofs as for new buildings + §§ 261-266
&
Requirements for design § 264
transmission loss
& § 257
General minimum requirements
Change of use &
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
General minimum requirements
Requirements § in BR for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs
Energy performance framework §§ 259-260
as for new buildings + §§ 261-266 OR (e.g. max. 22 % windows and doors)
&
Requirements for design § 264 Minimum requirements for the § 257
transmission loss building envelope for extensions + Annex 2, table 2
& &
General minimum requirements § 257
General minimum requirements
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
& for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
General minimum requirements skylight domes and glazed roofs
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs OR (e.g. more than 22 % windows and doors)
OR Heat loss framework corresponding
to the U values and linear losses § 272
Minimum requirements for the § 268 &
building envelope for change of use + Annex 2, table 2 General minimum requirements § 257
& for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
General minimum requirements &
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258 General minimum requirements
skylight domes and glazed roofs for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs

Conversions and other

alterations Replacements of
Requirements § in BR building parts

Minimum requirements for the building Requirements § in BR

envelope for conversions and other Kapitel i BR
alterations concerning cost-effective § 279 Minimum requirements for the
building envelope for conversions § 279
energy improvements (a calculation of + Annex7.2
2, table 3
and other alterations – regardless + Annex 2, table 3
cost-effectiveness must be available if
requirements are not complied with) 7.6 stk. 1 of cost-effectiveness
&
General minimum requirements § 258
OR for windows, glazed external
Energy performance framework for walls, skylight domes and glazed
§§ 280-282 roofs skylights and glass roofs –
existing buildings – called
regardless of cost-effectiveness
“renovation classes”

Figure 3

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Always consider energy and indoor climate
According to BR18, it is not legal to make alterations
to a building without considering both the energy and
ventilation conditions.
As such, the energy requirements of the Building
Regulations do not only apply to new buildings, change
of use and extensions but also existing buildings when
making alterations and other changes (including
replacements) and when the alterations affect the
energy consumption in the building.
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Energy Requirements of BR18
The only exceptions are reparations, according to the
regulations’ instructional text to energy consumption,
item 4.0.
Likewise, there are also requirements in relation to
ventilation in existing buildings in the case of change
of use, alterations and other changes. In the case of
smaller renovation jobs, for example replacement of
windows or doors, the ventilation conditions at the time
of construction must be maintained. This is specified by
BR18’s instructional text about ventilation, item 1.1.
 Energy Requirements of BR18

New buildings New buildings

Requirements § in BR
In relation to new buildings, there are four primary
§§ 259-260
levels of requirements that combined ensure that Energy performance framework
+ §§ 261-266
buildings have a low energy demand, are well-insulated &
Requirements for airtightness § 263
and are problem-free when it comes to moisture. &
Requirements for design § 264
Neither of the four requirement levels can achieve this transmission loss
alone. &
General minimum requirements § 257
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
The four levels are: the energy performance &
General minimum requirements
framework, design transmission loss, general minimum for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
demands for the building envelope and requirements skylight domes and glazed roofs &
for airtightness.
Calculation programs will help out &
The energy performance framework
The energy performance framework of the Building Be18 and equivalent Change of use
calculation programs &
Regulations indicates an upper limit for a newly automatically calculate the energy performance
Requirements § in BR
erected building’s total need for supplied energy to framework and the design transmission loss when
heating, ventilation, cooling and domestic hot water. you have
Energy entered your
performance data. It will quickly§§show
framework 259-260
as for new buildings + §§ 261-266 O
Lighting is only included for buildings other than &you the effect of even just a small change in a
dwellings. URequirements for design
value, for example. § 264
transmission loss
& &
General minimum requirements § 257
The energy demand of a building design is determined for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
by means of an energy performance framework &
General minimum requirements
calculation. For this purpose, the calculation program for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
Be18 will be used. How this is done is described in SBi energy (for domes
skylight exampleand solar
glazedcells
roofs or wind turbines) equal O
Direction 213, Energy demands of buildings. to a reduction in the need for supplied energy of 25
OR
kWh per m2. The various forms of energy are weighted
The developer is to submit the energy performance Minimum which
differently, requirements for the in § 252 of BR18. The
is described § 268 &
building envelope for change of use + Annex 2, table 2
framework calculation along with his application for Be18
& calculation program takes this into account.
a building permit. Once permission has been given General minimum requirements &
for windows, for
Requirements glazed external walls,
airtightness § 258
and the building has been erected, the calculation in skylight domes and glazed roofs
combination with the energy labelling of the building Buildings should be tight in order to retain heat and
will document that it adheres to the requirements of not have drafts. As such, there are requirements for
BR18. Conversions
the airtightness of new buildings in §and
263.other
It is 1.0 l/s
per m² of the heatedalterations
floor area at a pressure
BR18 includes a requirement for all buildings, which differential of 50 Pa. This must be performed as
states that the energy performance framework can at Requirements
specified in DS/EN 9972, Thermal performance of § in BR
most include electricity production from renewable buildings.
Minimum requirements for the building
envelope for conversions and other Kapitel i BR
alterations concerning cost-effective § 279
energy improvements (a calculation of + Annex7.2
2, table 3
Energy framework of BR18 for new buildings cost-effectiveness must be available if
requirements are not complied with) 7.6 stk. 1
&
Dwellings, student accommodations, hotels, etc. Offices, schools, institutions, etc.
OR
Energy performance framework for
Total energy demand per year must not exceed : Total energy
existing demand
buildings per year must not exceed: §§ 280-282
– called
“renovation classes”
1,000 1,000
30,0 + kWh/m² per year 41,0 + kWh/m² per year
heated floor area heated floor area

The reason for the Building Regulations having a higher energy performance framework for buildings that are not dwellings Figure 4
is that the energy demand for lighting in these buildings – for example offices, schools and institutions – is included when
calculating the energy demand.

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The airtightness is established individually in the
energy performance framework calculation and can be
documented by a pressure differential with a blower
door test. If a pressure test is not conducted, 1.5 l/s
per m² should be used when calculating the building’s
heating demand. This is in order to generate motivation
for always having a pressure test conducted.
In general, it is recommended to always measure
the tightness. It is part of good quality that you can
document the tightness.
BR requirements in § 269 and § 476 for design trans-
mission loss in W per m² of the building envelope
excluding windows and doors
Voluntary low
Excisting
Single-storey 4.0
Two-storey 5.0
Three or more storeys 6.0
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Energy Requirements of BR18
Definition of the design transmission loss
The design transmission loss per m2 of the
building envelope is the sum of the total heat
transmission loss through the building envelope
excluding windows, roof lights, glazed outer
walls, glazed roofs and skylight domes. The
designed temperatures and areas are determined
as specified in DS 418, Calculation of heat loss
from buildings.
Requirements for the design transmission loss
There are also requirements for the design transmission
loss of new buildings. This requirement is to ensure
well-insulated constructions. It also ensures that you
cannot comply with the energy performance framework
primarily by renewable energy; no matter the level of
renewable energy, the constructions should always be
well-insulated.
energy class
3.7
4.7
5.7
Figure 5
7
 Energy Requirements of BR18

General minimum requirements for the building
envelope
The individual building elements should be insulated
such that the heat losses through them do not exceed
the values in figure 6 below.
As such, the purpose of the values in relation to new
buildings is primarily to ensure that all building parts
– e.g. also small areas – are constructed with a level
of insulation that does not result in condensation and
moisture issues.

Typically, the U values will have to be considerably
lower than the requirements for the general
requirements for the building envelope in order to
comply with the energy performance framework and
the requirements for the design transmission loss.
The stated maximum U values apply to the entire
building part. Any cold bridges in the building part
must therefore be included. DS 418, Calculation of
heat loss from buildings, details typical cold bridges
and their contribution to the heat loss.

Approximate
New buildings (and possibly extensions). U value
W/m2 K insulation thicknesses
Annex 2: Tables for Chapter 11, Table 1
mm

External walls and basement walls in contact with the soil 0.30 150

Suspended upper floors and partition walls to adjoining rooms/

0.40 75
spaces where there is a 5° C temperature difference or more
Ground slabs, basement floors in contact with the soil and suspen- 150
0.20
ded upper floors above open air or a ventilated crawl space
Suspended floors below floors with underfloor heating 50
0.50
adjoining heated rooms/spaces
Ceiling and roof structures, including jamb walls, flat roofs 200
0.20
and sloping walls directly adjoining the roof

External doors without glazing (reference size: 1.23 m × 2.18 m) 1.40 -

External doors with glazing (reference size: 1.23 m × 2.18 m) 1.50 -

Gates and hatches to the outside or to rooms that are unheated

and glazed external glass walls and windows where there is a 1.80 -
5° C temperature difference or more

Skylight domes 1.40 -

Insulated sections in glazed external walls and windows 0.60 50

Suspended upper floors and walls against freezer rooms 0.15 275

Suspended upper floors and walls against cold stores 0.25 150

Ψ-value Figure 7
Requirements for linear loss for joints between building elements
W/m K

Foundations around spaces that are heated to a minimum of 5° C 0.40

Joints between external walls, windows, external doors, glazed

0.06
external walls, gates and hatches

Joints between roof construction and roof lights or skylight domes 0.20

Figure 6

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

Requirements for windows and glazed doors Percentage of renewable energy

As a new addition, BR18 includes a requirement
BR18 BR20 to use renewable energy in new buildings and in
(Building Regulation 2018) (Building Regulation 2020) substantial conversions if it is cost-effective
(read more on page 14 about cost-effectiveness).
Eref ≥ -17 kWh/ Eref ≥ 0 kWh/
m2/year m2/year The phrase “substantial conversions and
alterations” is in BR18 used only in this context
Energy label Energy label
and is defined as renovations that include a
C B A considerable percentage of the building envelope
and simultaneous replacement of a boiler. The
U ≈ 1.1 W/m2 K U ≈ 0.8 W/m2 K same applies for conversions in a building with
electrical heating.
Eref = 196.4 x gw – 90.36 x Uw
Reference window 1.23 m x 1.48 m
The percentage of renewable energy in the energy
Energy labels at www.energivinduer.dk (Danish)
supply cannot be included when calculating the
energy performance framework.
Requirements for roof lights and glazed roofs What can satisfy the requirement for
renewable energy?
BR18 BR20
• Heating by means of district heating, heat
(Building Regulation 2018) (Building Regulation 2020)
pumps and biofuel boilers
Eref ≥ 0 kWh/m² Eref ≥ 10 kWh/m² • Wind power and solar energy on building
/year /year owner’s own land

Eref = 345 x gw – 90.36 x Uw

Reference window 1.23 m x 1.48 m
Roof slope 45°

Figure 8

Low Energy Class

There is a volunteer Building Class 2020 in BR18. In
addition to the tightened requirements for design
transmission loss, which are specified in figure 5, it
involves a number of specific requirements. These are
described in chapter 25 of BR18 and must be adhered
to if you want to classify your building as having been
constructed in accordance with the low energy class.

Please note that the 2020 requirements for windows,

glazed external walls, skylight domes and glazed roofs
will still be mandatory from 2020 even though it is
voluntary to use the low energy class.

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 &
Requirements for design § 264
transmission loss
& Energy Requirements of BR18
General minimum requirements § 257
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
&
General minimum requirements
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs &

Change of use &

Change of use &
Requirements § in BR
Change of use:
When you convert a room for a new purpose with Energy performance framework §§ 259-260
as for new buildings + §§ 261-266
a significantly higher energy consumption – for &
example an outbuilding or usable roof space being Requirements for design § 264
transmission loss
included for dwelling, or a warehouse or stables & &
General minimum requirements § 257
being converted into offices. for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
&
General minimum requirements
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
The energy requirements in case of change of use can be skylight domes and glazed roofs
satisfied by two methods, as shown in the figure to the right.
OR
1. Energy framework Minimum requirements for the § 268 &
building envelope for change of use + Annex 2, table 2
The first method is to adhere to the energy performance &
framework for new buildings in combination with General minimum requirements &
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
the general minimum requirements for the building skylight domes and glazed roofs
envelope in Annex 2 to Chapter 11, Table 1 in BR18.
Read about the energy performance framework on
page 6 and see the general minimum requirements for Conversions and other
2. Minimum requirements for the building envelope
alterations
the building envelope in figure 6 (similar requirements
The other method is to adhere to the minimum
as for new buildings). When calculating the energy
requirements
Requirements for the building envelope as specified § inin
BR
performance framework, the area in m2 for the entire
Annex 2 to Chapter 11, Table 2 in BR18 (see figure 9) in
building should be used. The energy performance Minimum requirements for the building
combination
envelope forwith the requirements
conversions and other forKapitel i BR
windows,
framework is, however, rarely used in cases of § 279
glazed doors, roof lights and glazed roofs in § 258
alterations concerning cost-effective
change of use. In cases of change of use, there are energy improvements (a calculation of + Annex 7.2
2, table 3
(see figure 8).
cost-effectiveness must be available if
no requirements for airtightness or percentage of 7.6 stk. 1
requirements are not complied with)
renewable energy. &
OR
Energy performance framework for
Approximate §§ 280-282
Change of use and extensions. existing buildings
U value – called
W/m K insulation thicknesses
Annex 2: Tables for Chapter 11 - Energy consumption, Table “renovation classes”
2
2 mm

External walls and basement walls in contact with the soil 0.15 300

Suspended upper floors and partition walls to adjoining rooms/

0.40 75
spaces where there is a 5° C temperature difference or more
Ground slabs, basement floors in contact with the soil and
0.10 300
suspended upper floors above open air or a ventilated crawl space

Ceiling and roof structures, including jamb walls, flat roofs and 0.12 300
sloping walls directly adjoining the roof
Doors/gates 1.80 Figure 10
Hatches to the outside or to rooms where there is a 5° C
temperature difference or more (does not apply to ventilation 1.40
openings of less than 500 cm2)
Skylight domes Ændret anvendelse og tilbygning. Kap. 7.3.2 1.40
Ψ value
Requirements for linear loss for joints between building elements W/m K
Foundations 0.12
Joints between external walls, windows, external doors,
0.03
glazed external walls, gates and hatches
Joints between roof construction and roof lights or skylight domes 0.10

Figure 9

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 S
S R E Q U IREMENT
New buildings A LW A Y O NS
Energy Requirements of BR18

A L L A T I
Requirements § in BR
FOR INST altered or
ts are
replaced
mponen
- when co
§§ 259-260
Energy performance framework
+ §§ 261-266
&
& Extensions
Requirements for airtightness
Requirements for design
§ 263

§ 264
&
transmission loss Extensions
General minimum requirements § 257
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
Requirements § in BR
& Extensions:
General minimum requirements
When you erect
for windows, more
glazed square
external metres attached§to
walls, 258 Energy performance framework §§ 259-260
skylight domes and glazed roofs as for new buildings + §§ 261-266
an existing building. E.g. a new wing, new top &
Requirements for design
storey or a new attic that provides an extra area. transmission loss
§ 264
& § 257
General minimum requirements
Change
The energy requirements for of use
extensions can be satisfied &
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
by three different methods, as shown in the figure to General minimum requirements
Requirements § in BR for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
the right. skylight domes and glazed roofs
Energy performance framework §§ 259-260
Theasfirst twobuildings
for new methods are similar to cases of + §§change
261-266 OR (e.g. max. 22 % windows and doors)
&
of use and are specified
Requirements for design on the previous page. When § 264 Minimum requirements for the § 257
transmission
calculating theloss
energy performance framework, the building envelope for extensions + Annex 2, table 2
& &
area in m2 minimum
General for the entire building should be used.§The
requirements 257
General minimum requirements
for
energy the building envelope + Annex 2,
performance framework is, however, rarely usedtable 1
& for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
for General
extensions.
minimum requirements skylight domes and glazed roofs
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs
The third method is to employ a heat loss framework. OR (e.g. more than 22 % windows and doors)
IfOR
this method is used, you should stay within a Heat loss framework corresponding
§ 272
to the U values and linear losses
framework that does not
Minimum requirements formake
the the extension’s heat § 268 &
lossbuilding
biggerenvelope
than if for
thechange
minimumof userequirements
+ Annex 2,for
table
the2 General minimum requirements § 257
&
building
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
Generalenvelope
minimum described
requirementsin Table 2, Annex 2 to &
for windows,
Chapter glazed
11 (see external
figure walls,
9) were satisfied. § 258 General minimum requirements
skylight domes and glazed roofs for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs
Furthermore, the minimum requirements for the
building envelope for building elements
Conversions described in
and other
Table 1, Annex 2 to Chapter 11 should be adhered to
alterations
(see figure 6). To demonstrate that the Replacements
actual heat loss isof
below the
Requirements § in BR heat loss framework, twobuilding
separate parts
calculations are
What is a heat loss framework? required:
InMinimum
combination with adhering
requirements to theKapitel
for the building general minimum Requirements § in BR
envelope for conversions and other i BR • Calculation of the heat loss framework
requirements for the building envelope,
alterations concerning cost-effective
a heat loss
§ 279
• Minimum requirements
Calculation of thefor the
extension’s actual heat §loss
building envelope for conversions 279
framework calculation
energy improvements can be used
(a calculation + Annex 7.2
of to ensure that 3
2, table
and other alterations – regardless + Annex 2, table 3
cost-effectiveness
you must be available
meet the requirements if
for extensions added
requirements are not complied with) 7.6 stk. 1 to Theseoftwo calculations differ in two manners:
cost-effectiveness
an existing building and for new holiday homes in &
General minimum requirements § 258
OR
designated “summer house” areas as well as extensions First of
forall, the Uglazed
windows, valuesexternal
and linear losses of the actual
Energy performance
to these holiday homes. framework for calculation can vary
walls, skylight in relation
domes and glazedto the U values and
§§ 280-282
existing buildings – called linearroofs skylights
losses in and 2,
Table glass roofs2– to Chapter 11
Annex
regardless of cost-effectiveness
“renovation
The classes”
heat loss framework indicates the maximum heat (figure 9); some U values may be higher, some may
transmission loss allowed. The maximum framework be lower.
varies from construction to construction as it is
calculated based on information on square metres for Secondly, in the actual calculation, 50 % of the heat loss
the extension in question. that the extension covers of the existing building can be
deducted. This does not apply to dwellings in roofs and
The Building Regulations are as such adhered to when second storeys.
the actual heat loss is below the maximum allowed heat
loss framework – while also satisfying the requirements There is furthermore a requirement that window areas,
for general minimum requirements for the building etc. in the heat loss framework is set to 22 % of the
envelope indicated in Table 1, Annex 2 to Chapter 11 of heated storey area in the extension. In the actual
BR18 (see figure 6). building, there may be a larger area of windows, etc. as
long as you stay within the heat loss framework overall.

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

Example

Basis New extension of 36.0 m2 added to existing 1960 single-family house.

The extension is on one floor with ground deck and underfloor heating
and a 25 ° roof with loft insulation.

Therefore the area of windows and doors 22 % of 36 m2 = 7.9 m2

in the heat loss framework must be:

The window area is one large window Length of joint between external wall and window for sides and top:
section of 6 metres from floor to ceiling 2 x 7.9/6 = 8.6 m

The extension will cover the following External wall 9.8 m²

area of the existing building: Window section with double-glazed glass 12.6 m²
Joints against windows 10.2 m

Figure 11

U value and linear Temperature

Heat loss framework Area/length loss (Ψ value) difference Heat loss

Roof in extension 36.0 m² 0.12 W/m²K 32 K 138 W

Ground deck in extension 30.3 m² 0.10 W/m²K 20 K 61 W

Foundation in extension 17.0 m 0.12 W/mK 42 K 86 W

External wall in extension 39.7 m² 0.15 W/m²K 32 K 191 W

Window section in extension (6 m x 1.32 m) 7.9 m² 1.20 W/m²K 32 K 303 W

Joints against windows 8.6 m 0.03 W/mK 32 K 8W

Result of heat loss framework 787 W

* Requirements for U values and line loss are given in Table 2 of Annex 2 to Chapter 11
of BR18. For the window part, U value is found in Section 273.

U value and linear Temperature

Actual heat loss Area/length loss (Ψ value) difference Heat loss

Roof in extension 36.0 m² 0.13 W/m²K 32 K 150 W

Ground deck in extension 30.3 m² 0.12 W/m²K 20 K 73 W

Foundation in extension 17.0 m 0.14 W/mK 42 K 100 W

External wall in extension 14.1 m² 0.25 W/m²K 32 K 113 W

Window section in extension 33.5 m² 0.85 W/m²K 32 K 911 W

Joints against windows and external walls 28.5 m 0.05 W/mK 32 K 46 W

External wall in existing building (50 %) - 4.9 m² 0.4 W/m²K 32 K - 63 W

Window section in existing building (50 %) - 6.3 m² 2.7 W/m²K 32 K - 544 W

Joints against windows (50 %) - 5.1 m 0.05 W/mK 32 K -8W

Result of actual heat loss 778 W

Figure 12

Conclusion
In the example, the result of calculating the heat loss of the actual building is 778 W. This is lower than the 787 W,
which is the result of the heat loss calculation in the example. As such, the example building is within the heat loss
framework and adheres to BR18.

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 Requirements for design § 264
transmission loss
& Energy Requirements§of257
General minimum requirements BR18

Change of use &

for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
General minimum requirements
Requirements § in BR for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs
Energy performance framework §§ 259-260

Conversions and other alterations

as for new buildings + §§ 261-266 OR (e.g. max. 22 % windows and doors)
&
Requirements for design § 264 Minimum requirements for the § 257
transmission loss building envelope for extensions + Annex 2, table 2
& &
General minimum requirements § 257
General minimum requirements
for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1 It is mandatory toglazed
carry external
out energy
& for windows, walls,saving measures§ 258
General minimum requirements skylight domes and glazed roofs
during conversions and alterations of existing buildings
Conversions and other alterations: § 258
for windows, glazed external walls,
When something is rebuilt, renovated or altered in
skylight domes and glazed roofs
to the level that the investment is cost-effective – and
OR (e.g. more than 22 % windows and doors)
a manner that does not fall under change of use or in connection with outright replacements (read about
OR Heat loss framework corresponding
extension. E.g. new roofing, new roofing membrane replacements on page
to the U values and16). Maybe
linear losses you cannot quite fulfil
§ 272
Minimum requirements for the
or building
plastering of a facade that has not previously § 268 &
the requirements of Table 3, Annex 2 to Chapter 11
envelope for change of use + Annex 2, table 2 General minimum requirements § 257
been
& plastered. (see figure
for the13) – butenvelope
building you must still improve to a possible
+ Annex 2, table 1
General minimum requirements lower& and cost-effective level.
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258 General minimum requirements
www.eksempelsamling.bygningsreglementet.dk
At skylight domes and glazed roofs for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
Diggingskylight
out andomes
existing ground
and glazed deck can, for example,
roofs
(Danish) you can see more examples of
require a depth that is below the foundation in order to
construction projects that require making them
Conversions and other satisfy the U value requirement. This can result in the
more energy efficient.
alterations foundation having to be undercasted
Replacementsat great
ofexpense.
In such cases, retrofitting of insulation must only be
Requirements § in BR building parts
done to a level that it is structurally safe to dig to.
Minimum requirements for the building Requirements § in BR
envelope for conversions and other Kapitel i BR
alterations concerning cost-effective § 279 Minimum requirements for the
building envelope for conversions § 279
energy improvements (a calculation of + Annex 7.2
2, table 3
and other alterations – regardless + Annex 2, table 3
cost-effectiveness must be available if
requirements are not complied with) 7.6 stk. 1 of cost-effectiveness
&
General minimum requirements § 258
OR for windows, glazed external
Energy performance framework for walls, skylight domes and glazed
§§ 280-282 roofs skylights and glass roofs –
existing buildings – called
regardless of cost-effectiveness
“renovation classes”

Conversions and other alterations to the building (cost- Approximate

effectiveness) and replacement of building parts. U value insulation thicknesses
W/m2 K
Annex 2: Tables for Chapter 11 - Energy consumption, Table 3 mm

External walls and basement walls in contact with the soil 0.18 200 (heavy) / 250 (light)

Suspended upper floors and partition walls to adjoining rooms/

0.40 75
spaces where there is a 5° C temperature difference or more

Ground slabs, basement floors in contact with the soil and

0.10 300
suspended upper floors above open air or a ventilated crawl space

Ceiling and roof structures, including jamb walls, flat roofs and 0.12 300
sloping walls directly adjoining the roof

Doors/gates 1.80 Figure 14

Hatches, new secondary windows, skylight domes 1.40

Renovated secondary windows 1.65

Ψ value
Requirements for linear loss for joints between building elements
W/m K

Foundations 0.12

Joints between external walls, windows, external doors, glazed

0.03
external walls, gates and hatches

Joints between roof construction and roof lights or skylight

0.10
domes

Figure 13

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

What is cost-effectiveness?
Cost-effectiveness indicates how rewarding an energy- Lifetimes that can be used to calculate Years
saving measure is. Or in other words: Does the building cost-effectiveness
owner save more money in the long term than was
used to invest in the measure? Retro-fitted insulation to building elements 40

Cost-effectiveness is calculated like so: Windows with secondary windows and coupled
30
(cf. § 275 in BR18) frames
Heating systems, radiators and underfloor
Lifetime in years x annual savings in DKK heating and ventilation ducts and fittings 30
≥ 1.33
Extra investment including insulation
Heat appliances, etc., for example boilers, heat
If the cost-effectiveness is greater than or equal to 20
pumps, solar heating systems, ventilation units
1.33, the investment is considered cost-effective for
the building owner. This corresponds to the measure Lighting fittings 15
being repaid within ¾ of the expected lifetime.
Automation for heating and climatic control
15
The investment sum used in the calculation should only equipment
include the price of extra labour and materials for the
actual energy improvement – e.g. the insulation and Joint sealing works 10
any labour resulting thereof. It is often the case that Figure 15
retrofitting of insulation, for example, is more cost-
effective when you are already doing other renovation
work. Useful guide for assessing cost-effectiveness
A guide from the Danish Transport, Construction
When determining the lifetime, you can use figure
and Housing Authority about constructions that
15, which also appears in BR18’s guide to energy
are often cost-effective demonstrates a range of
consumption (Chapter 11), Cost-effective energy
the typical cost-effective retrofitting measures
savings.
during conversions and other alterations.
If an investment is cost-effective, you must adhere to
You can find it at www.bygningsreglementet.dk
the minimum requirements for the building envelope
(Danish) under Chapter 11, Guides (Vejledninger).
and linear loss that are specified in Table 3, Annex 2 to
Chapter 11 (see figure 13).

New installations must meet the requirements of

BR18’s chapter 19 according to DS 452, Thermal
insulation of technical installations (read more on
page 18).
Special conditions for buildings with cavities
When evaluating the cost-effectiveness concern-
ing existing building structures with cavities – for
example roofs which offer space for further
insulation without changes to the structures – it
must first be evaluated whether the filling of
cavities is profitable. Often it will be, and if this
is the case, the cavities must be insulated if it is
estimated a safe solution moisture-wise.
Justifiable moisture- and energy-wise
Constructional conditions can mean that the
minimum requirements for the building envelope
during conversion and other alterations cannot
be met in a justifiable manner in relation to cost-
effectiveness or moisture. There may, however,
be an opportunity to carry out less extensive work
that reduces the energy demand. This would then
be the work that needs to be done.
An example:
You are to renovate an outer wall. It is a cav-
ity wall with no room for satisfying the U value
requirement of figure 13. You will therefore carry
out cost-effectiveness calculations on external an
internal retrofitted insulation. But neither turns
out to be cost-effective. This means that by in-
sulating the cavity wall to the possible level, you
have satisfied the energy requirements.

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

Energy performance frameworks for existing buildings
During larger building renovations, as an alternative to
satisfying the U values and linear losses of Table 3,
Annex 2 to Chapter 11, you can choose to use the
energy performance frameworks for existing buildings –
also called renovation classes.
This new method of satisfying the energy requirements
during larger conversions and other alterations is
voluntary and has been introduced to allow developers
greater flexibility.
This means that instead of having requirements for
achieving heat savings by re-insulating per building
element and with accompanying cost-effectiveness
calculations, the energy performance framework gives
the freedom to carry out other energy saving measures
that in total bring the building’s energy demand down
to a future-proof level.
Note, however, that when completely replacing
a building element – e.g. an entire roof structure
including new trusses, etc., or an installation – the
requirements of figure 13 must always be met.
To fulfil the renovation classes, an energy performance
framework must be satisfied, and the energy demand
must be reduced by at least 30 kWh/m² per year.
Furthermore, there must be a percentage of renewable
energy in the total energy supply to the building. For
Renovation Class 1, a number of requirements for a
satisfactory indoor climate must also be met.
Practical savings calculator
In order to calculate the expected savings for
single-family houses, terraced houses and tower
blocks, you can use the savings calculator at
www.ByggeriogEnergi.dk (Danish)

Energy performance framework for existing buildings

Dwellings, student accommodations, hotels, etc. Energy label

1,650 kWh/m² per year

Renovation class 1 52.5 +
heated floor area

3,200 kWh/m² per year

Renovation class 2 110 +
heated floor area

Offices, schools, institutions, etc Energy label

1,650
Renovation class 1 71.3 + kWh/m² per year
heated floor area
3,200
Renovation class 2 135 + kWh/m² per year
heated floor area

Figure 16

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 OR Heat loss framework corresponding
to the U values and linear losses § 272
Minimum requirements for the § 268 &
building envelope for change of use + Annex 2, table 2 General minimum requirements § 257
Energy Requirements of BR18
& for the building envelope + Annex 2, table 1
General minimum requirements &
for windows, glazed external walls, § 258 General minimum requirements
skylight domes and glazed roofs for windows, glazed external walls, § 258
skylight domes and glazed roofs
Replacement of
building
alterations elements and installations
Conversions and other
Replacements of
Requirements § in BR building parts

Minimum requirements for the building Requirements § in BR

Replacement: Kapitel i BR
envelope for conversions and other
When a building
alterations element
concerning is removed from the § 279
cost-effective Minimum requirements for the
§ 279
Annex7.2 building envelope for conversions
energy improvements
building (a calculation
and replaced of
with another –+ without2, table 3
any and other alterations – regardless + Annex 2, table 3
cost-effectiveness must be available if
other alterations to the building.
requirements are not complied with) E.g. replacement
7.6 stk. 1 of cost-effectiveness
&
of a boiler, window or an entire roof structure General minimum requirements § 258
OR for windows, glazed external
including new trusses, etc.
Energy performance framework for walls, skylight domes and glazed
§§ 280-282 roofs skylights and glass roofs –
existing buildings – called
regardless of cost-effectiveness
“renovation classes”

When being replaced, the building element or
installation should in all cases be replaced by a more
energy efficient component. As such, when replacing
a building element or installation, cost-effectiveness
is not a factor – but it is generally most cost-effective
to get a more modern central heating system or better
insulated windows when installations or building
elements are being replaced anyway.
requirements for windows, doors etc. specified in § 258
(figure 8).
New installations should satisfy the requirements in
BR18’s chapter 19 (read more on page 18). This chapter
refers to two standards: DS 469, Heating and cooling
systems in buildings and DS 452, Thermal insulation of
technical installations.

The new building elements should meet the minimum Remember that the ventilation conditions cannot be
requirements for the building envelope specified in impaired when replacing for example windows or
BR18’s Table 3, Annex 2 to Chapter 11 (figure 13) and doors. In many cases, this can be resolved via valves in
external walls.

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 Energy Requirements of BR18

Holiday homes
New holiday homes in designated “summer house”
Minimum requirements for the building
areas are not covered by the same regulations as envelope for holiday homes, camping Approximate
U value insulation
other new buildings. cottages and similar holiday dwelling. W/m2 K thicknesses
Annex 2: Tables for Chapter 11 - mm
Here, there are no requirements for the energy Energy consumption, Table 4
performance framework – only for the U values and
External walls and basement walls in 0.25 150
linear loss in figure 17. contact with the soil
This is, however, under the provision that the total Suspended upper floors and partition 0.40 75
walls to adjoining rooms/spaces
area of windows and outer doors, including roof lights
that are unheated
and skylight domes, glazed outer walls, glazed roofs
Ground slabs, basement floors in
and hatches leading outside, make up no more than 0.15 200
contact with the soil and suspended
30 % of the heated floor area. upper floors above open air or a
ventilated crawl space
There is in-built flexibility that allows you to deviate
Ceiling and roof structures, including 0.15 250
from U values and linear loss if you can substantiate jamb walls, flat roofs and sloping
that the design transmission loss does not become walls directly adjoining the roof
bigger than if the values of figure 17 had been Windows, external doors, roof lights, Figure 18
adhered to. glazed external walls, glazed roofs 1.80
and skylight domes facing the outside
If, for example, you want more window area, you or facing unheated rooms/spaces
should be able to satisfy a heat loss framework. See
Requirements for linear loss for joints Ψ value
pages 11 and 12 on heat loss framework. between building elements W/m K

When holiday homes, camping cottages and similar Foundations 0.15

holiday dwelling are being rebuilt it is mandatory to
Joints between external walls, windows,
implement cost-effective energy saving measures. external doors, glazed external walls, 0.03
gates and hatches
Joints between roof construction and
0.10
roof lights or skylight domes
Figure 17

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Requirements for installations
Installations must comply with two standards
The specific energy requirements for technical
installations are not described directly in the Building
Regulations. There is instructional text to BR18 about
the thermal indoor climate and installations for
heating and cooling systems as well as instructions for
ventilation. In addition, BR18 refers to installations to
two standards that installations must comply with:
DS 469, Heating and cooling systems in buildings and
DS 452, Thermal insulation of technical installations.
Applies to both heating and cooling systems
According to BR18, both heating and cooling systems
must be implemented in a sound manner energy-
wise. Both types of systems should be dimensioned,
constructed, controlled, implemented and operated
as specified in DS 469, Heating and cooling systems in
buildings.
Energy requirements for the systems
DS 452, Thermal Insulation of Technical Installations,
must be observed for heating and cooling systems to
minimize the heat loss and protect the installations
against condensation. Pipes and tanks should as far as
possible be placed so that their emission of heat will
benefit the building. Ventilation systems with inlet and
outlet must meet the requirements for heat recovery
in EU Regulation No. 1253/2014. The requirement
in the EU Regulation corresponds to 73 per cent
temperature efficiency for all heat recovery systems.
The only exception is liquid-cooled batteries for which
the requirement is 68 per cent.
Limitations for oil boilers
BR18 requires that heating of buildings is based on
renewable energy. This means, among other things,
that oil boilers are not allowed for use in new
buildings.
For existing buildings – that are located in an area
with district heating or natural gas – it is not possible
to replace an older oil boiler with a new one. It
is, however, possible to heat with oil regardless of
previous heating type, if the existing building is
located in an area without any existing or planned
collective heat supply systems.
Always individual control
There is a requirement for individual control of the
room temperature in new buildings. This is regulated
in BR18 by referring to DS 469, Heating and cooling
systems in buildings, which includes this requirement.
18
Danish Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings generates knowledge about concrete and practical options for reducing the energy consumption in buildings.
Energy Requirements of BR18
Information requirements for developers and
installation contractors
As a result of new energy labelling regulation
for heating systems, developers and installation
contractors now face new information
requirements in relation to the building owner
when developers and installation contractors sell
a heating system of up to and including 70 kW
through their companies. These requirements do
not appear from the Building Regulations but are
described on the Danish Energy Agency’s website:
https://ens.dk/sites/ens.dk/files/Energimaerke/
brochure_saadan_overholder_du_de_nye_
informationskrav_naar_du_forhandler_
opvarmningsanlaeg.pdf (Danish)
Everything must be insulated
When it comes to installations, BR18 specifies that
all parts of a system should be insulated – and that
includes e.g. manifolds, shunts and district heating
units. Previously it was possible to not insulate certain
parts.
Heat recovery must preheat the intake air
For the inflow of outside air that is achieved via a
ventilation intake system, BR18 requires heat recovery
that preheats the intake air.
Requirements for functional testing of technical
installations
BR18 requires that the energy performance and
operative system of new technical installations
be checked by functional testing. This applies for
ventilation systems, heating and cooling systems,
lighting systems and lifts. The requirement applies to
both new and existing buildings where new building
installations or existing ones are being replaced. In
existing buildings, the installations must be central
and have an impact on energy consumption before the
requirement applies.
The functional test must be carried out after the
installations have been installed and before they are
put into service. It is the responsibility of the building
owner that the functional tests are carried out and
that the tests are in accordance with the building
regulations requirements for the desired performance.
 Energy Requirements of BR18

Energy solutions and BR18 tools

to help you on your way
The Danish Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings
offers free knowledge and tools to help you satisfy the
requirements of BR18. Including energy solutions that in
a concrete and practical manner describe how to energy
renovate building elements and installations, as well as
the BR18 tool that helps you determine whether or not
your renovation project prompts energy improvement
requirements.

www.ByggeriOgEnergi.dk

Useful links The Building Regulations’ instructional text on

ventilation:
The Building Regulations in English: http://bygningsreglementet.dk/Tekniske-bestemmel-
http://bygningsreglementet.dk/~/media/Br/BR- ser/22/Vejledninger/Generel_vejledning (Danish)
English/BR18_Executive_order_on_building_regula-
tions_2018.pdf SBi Direction 213, Energy demands of buildings:
www.sbi.dk/miljo-og-energi/energiberegning/
The Building Regulations’ instructional text on anvisning-213-bygningers-energibehov (Danish)
energy consumption:
http://bygningsreglementet.dk/Tekniske-bestem- Energy solutions and savings calculator:
melser/11/BRV/Energiforbrug (Danish) www.ByggeriOgEnergi.dk (Danish)

The Building Regulations’ Annex 2: Tables for
Chapter 11 on energy consumption:
http://bygningsreglementet.dk/Bilag/B2/Bilag_2
(Danish)
The Building Regulations’ instructional text on the
building envelope and installations for heating and
cooling systems:
http://bygningsreglementet.dk/Tekniske-bestem-
melser/19/Vejledninger/Termisk-indeklima (Danish)
Experience sheets with buildable solutions:
www.Byg-erfa.dk (Danish)
Danish Transport, Construction and Housing
Authority’s guide on functional testings:
http://bygningsreglementet.dk/Tekniske-bestem-
melser/22/Vejledninger/Generel_vejledning/Kap-
1_9 (Danish)
Guides on functional testings published by Danish
Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings:
http://byggeriogenergi.dk/
soeg/?q=funktionsafprøvning (Danish)

19
Danish Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings generates knowledge about concrete and practical options for reducing the energy consumption in buildings.
About the Danish Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings
The Danish Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings gathers and communicates
knowledge about concrete and practical possibilities for reducing the energy consumption
of buildings. This is achieved by the Knowledge Centre having a hand in the parties of the
construction sector attaining more qualifications and new tools for implementing energy-saving
measures in buildings.

The Knowledge Centre as such assists in the total energy savings effort in Denmark.

The Danish Knowledge Centre for Energy Savings in Buildings was established as part of the
Danish energy policy agreement from 2008 and carried on in the agreement from 2012 and 2015.

Our logo – the house in bright colours – is inspired by thermographic imaging, which is an
excellent tool in mapping the energy loss of buildings.

Danish Knowledge Centre for

Energy Savings in Buildings
Gregersensvej 1 • Building 2 • DK-2630 Taastrup • Tel. +45 7220 2255 • info@ByggeriOgEnergi.dk • www.ByggeriOgEnergi.dk

Produced in collaboration with: